Mattawa's police and firefighters behind Christmas in the Park

MATTAWA — Police and firefighters in this community apparently haven’t heard it’s not politically correct to support Christmas, or they don’t care.

The Mattawa Police Department and Grant County District No. 8 are the prime movers behind A Mattawa Community Christmas Celebration in Hund Memorial Park on Friday, Dec. 18.

According to Police Chief John Turley, the celebration will get under way with a lighted Christmas Parade at 5 p.m. That will be followed by activities in the park.

“The Catholic Church and the Mormon Church will be involved,” Turley said. “We are trying to contact Pastor Gutierrez to see if his church in Schawana will put together a live nativity.”

According to Turley, the fire department has committed a lighted truck for the parade. He said one are farmer has committed a lighted tractor and has said he will recruit others.

“We have lots of volunteers, but we need more,” Turley said. “Hopefully a Christmas Festival committee will be formed for next year.”

All are invited to participate in the parade, Maria Celaya said. She said it will be followed by the lighting of a community Christmas tree, Christmas Carols from local churches and a living Nativity scene

And, of course, Santa Claus will make an appearance. There will be hot chocolate and cookies for all to share.

If you are able to volunteer to help give this festival a good start, you may contact the Mattawa PD at 509-932-4037 or Mattawa FD at 509-932-4777.

This event is sponsored by the Mattawa PD, Fire department and other community-minded locals.